Sports tributes to Sept. 11

Mary Ogonowski, daughter of pilot John Ogonowski, who was the pilot on American Airlines flight 11 that was hijacked during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, throws the ceremonial first pitch. The Boston Red Sox play their first of two games in their home stand against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park in Boston, Mass. on Tuesday, September 13, 2011. (Photo by Yoon S. Byun/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

13 years ago, tragedy struck in the United States. Thousands lost their lives when terrorists hijacked planes on a suicide mission. What followed 9/11 was an outpouring of love, care, and support from around the globe.

The world of sports has always been a crutch for the nation following times of hardship. Sporting events bring people together, they inspire us, and they unite us.

Take a visual journey through the powerful photos of how the sports world has paid tribute to 9/11 over the years.